4.8
(4723)
5,148
hikers
00:43
2.59km
50m
Hiking
The Malibu Bluff Trail offers an easy hiking experience, perfect for a quick escape with ocean views. You will cover 1.6 miles (2.6 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 165 feet (50 metres), which takes about 43 minutes to complete. As you hike, you can expect to see panoramic ocean vistas stretching towards the Santa Monica Mountains, with the path winding through coastal sage scrub and open grasslands.
Planning your visit to the Malibu Bluff Trail is straightforward, as the trailhead is conveniently located at Malibu Bluffs Park. The park provides useful amenities like restrooms and drinking fountains for your comfort. While free parking is available, it is a good idea to arrive during off-peak times, especially on weekends, as spaces can fill up quickly. This helps ensure a relaxed start to your hike.
This trail is notable for its tranquil atmosphere and the opportunity to observe marine life. Keep an eye out for dolphins and sea lions playing in the waves below, adding a unique element to your coastal walk. You can also find picnic tables overlooking the ocean, providing a perfect spot to pause and enjoy the scenery, making it a great option for a leisurely outing.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
2.11 km
433 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
2.15 km
334 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Today
Sunday 17 May
20°C
12°C
2 %
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Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Free parking is available at Malibu Bluffs Park, where the trailhead is conveniently located. However, spaces can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so it's advisable to arrive early.
The trail is generally dog-friendly, but dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the park beautiful for everyone.
The Malibu Bluff Trail is suitable for year-round enjoyment. Its coastal location means pleasant temperatures for most of the year. For the most vibrant scenery, consider visiting in spring when wildflowers are in bloom.
No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access Malibu Bluffs Park or to hike the Malibu Bluff Trail.
Yes, the trail is considered easy and is suitable for beginners and families. It's mostly flat and leisurely, making it a great option for a relaxed outing with stunning views.
The trail begins with a paved footpath circling Malibu Bluffs Park, then transitions into a wide dirt trail. While mostly flat, there can be some overgrown sections at the start, and a slightly steeper section towards the end of the loop when returning to the park.
Hikers are treated to panoramic ocean views, encompassing both the coastline and vistas of the Santa Monica Mountains. You'll see wildflowers, coastal sage scrub, southern willow scrub, and open grasslands. Keep an eye out for marine life like dolphins and sea lions.
Yes, Malibu Bluffs Park, where the trailhead is located, offers amenities including restrooms and drinking fountains.
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Malibu Road Beach Access #5, Malibu Road Beach Access #6, and Malibu Road Beach Access #4.
The trail is notably tranquil and often lightly-trafficked, making it a peaceful escape compared to some other popular trails in the area.
Yes, there are several picnic tables strategically placed overlooking the ocean, providing ideal spots to take a break, enjoy a snack, and soak in the stunning coastal scenery.